Thinking about the reading…
- Why the focus on the individual and the collective in this piece? What is it trying to say about these concepts?
- Thinking about our discussion of how power operates in relation to privilege and oppression, what do you think of the line in the fourth (IV) section: “any man is free to renounce his superior position, provided that he is willing to be treated like a woman by other men”?
- What does it mean to develop consciousness, generally? What does it mean in this specific context? (Mentioned in section five (V))
- What are the major areas of discussion/complaint in this text?
- Is there a âcall to actionâ in the text? If so, what is it? Is this an important part of the text?
- What do you think is the most powerful line (or lines) in the text?
Beyond the reading…
- Who is/are Redstockings? Does knowing this help to understand the text?
- This was written in July 1969– at the height of much political upheaval and protest. What was going on at this time? How did the political climate influence this writing? Do you think such a document could be produced outside of this context?
- In the third (III) section, it says “All men receive economic, sexual, and psychological benefits from male supremacy. All men have oppressed women.” How does this fit with the current/recent #NotAllMen hashtag and debate? (A quick lesson on #NotAllMen, for those who are unfamiliar.)
- Would you classify this as a Manifesto? Why or why not?
- How does this text compare to âThe Declaration of Sentiments and Reasonsâ by Elizabeth Cady Stanton?
